By Grace Q. Bryant
The Ministry of Agriculture has set the launch of the National Agriculture Fair (NAF) 2024 to Saturday, December 7, at the Booker Washington Institute (BWI) Campus in Kakata, Margibi County which is expected to be graced by government officials, international partners, and farmers from across the country to celebrate and showcase Liberia’s agricultural achievements.
At the Ministry of Information, Culture & Tourism’s regular press briefing on December 3, 2024, Minister of Agriculture, Alexander Nuetah, highlighted the significance of the fair, emphasizing its role in promoting agricultural development and supporting local farmers.
“This fair allows farmers to showcase the products they have worked hard to produce throughout the year,” Minister Nuteh said.
He noted, “It’s also a platform for every Liberian to come and purchase directly from our farmers, reinforcing the President’s call for Liberians to feed themselves.”
According to him, the theme for this year’s fair, “Promoting Agriculture for Food Security, Nutrition, and Sustainable Development,” will underscore the government’s commitment to enhancing food security and reducing reliance on imports.
Minister Nuetah emphasized the critical link between food security and national stability, stating, “No nation that cannot feed itself can claim to be stable. By supporting local farmers, we not only ensure food security but also generate income for rural communities, driving development and economic growth.”
The event will feature farmers, value-chain actors, and agricultural innovators showcasing products and solutions, from fresh produce to value-added items and farming inputs. An organic fertilizer producer, among others, will also exhibit sustainable agricultural technologies.
He maintained that the three-day fair will include: a Farmers’ Conference (December 5): Farmers from all 15 counties will gather to discuss Liberia’s National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP) 2024–2030, also known as the Liberia Feed Yourself Agenda, adding that key discussions will focus on aligning farmers’ input with national goals and formulating actionable resolutions to guide government policy.
The fair aims to connect farmers with key stakeholders, including value chain actors and agricultural input suppliers.
Minister Nuetah revealed that an investor specializing in organic fertilizer will be showcasing innovative solutions to enhance productivity.
“This event is not just for farmers but also for those interested in entering the agricultural sector,” he said.
Farmers and other stakeholders will also have the opportunity to learn about advancements in agricultural technology, tools, and practices to improve yields and promote sustainable farming methods.
He emphasized that on the official opening, President Boakai will formally open the fair and tour a major rice production site, where 900 hectares of lowland rice are under cultivation.
He noted that the final day will focus on exhibitions, where farmers will showcase their products. Awards will be presented in various categories, including vegetable production and value-added processing. “The goal is to encourage excellence and innovation within the agricultural sector.”
Minister Nuetah urged attendees to support farmers by purchasing their goods during the event. “We want to ensure our farmers return home without any unsold products. Your purchases empower them and stimulate development in their communities,” he said.
He further explained that the National Agriculture Fair has a rich history in Liberia, dating back to its inception in 1956 under then-Minister Johnny Cooper.
Over the years, the fair has been held intermittently in locations such as Grand Bassa, Bong, Nimba, and Lofa Counties. The most recent event, in 2021, was held in Suakoko, Bong County.
“This year’s fair continues a proud tradition of celebrating and promoting agriculture in Liberia,” Minister Nuetah remarked.
The Ministry of Agriculture is inviting Liberians from all walks of life to attend the event and show support for the nation’s farmers.
“This fair is for everyone; farmers, consumers, and investors alike. Let’s come together in Kakata to celebrate our agricultural achievements and drive progress toward a self-sufficient Liberia,” Minister Nuetah concluded.
